Immunity

Immunity provides powerful immune-supportive ingredients such as the well-tolerated and absorbed Ester-C, Vitamin D3, zinc, and a special proprietary blend of phytonutrients. This formula, designed by Douglas Laboratories’ Clinical Advisor Dr. Julie Chen, is to be taken at the very first sign of wanting increased immune support.

FUNCTIONS The immune system is strongly influenced by the intake of nutrients. Specific vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts have been shown to influence the body’s immune reaction and cell activity. The innate immunity as the first line of defense represents a natural protection. The innate immune system is made up of leukocytes (white blood cells) which include the phagocytes (macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells), mast cells, eosinophils, basophils, and natural killer cells. Innate cells are also important mediators in the activation of the adaptive immune system. The cells of the adaptive immune system are special types of leukocytes, called lymphocytes. B cells and T cells are the major types of lymphocytes; B cells are involved in the humoral immune response, whereas T cells are involved in cell-mediated immune response. It is now clear that cells from the immune system are necessary to convert 25-hydroxyvitamin D to active 1, 25- dihydroxyvitamin D. Mechanisms such as this are important for promoting immune responses in macrophages, and for regulating the maturation of antigen-presenting dendritic cells. T-cells also exhibit direct responses to 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D. Therefore, vitamin D is a key factor linking innate and adaptive immunity which may be compromised under conditions of vitamin D insufficiency. Zinc is known as an essential trace mineral because humans require it in very small amounts. Zinc directly affects immune function and even a mild zinc deficiency suppresses immunity. Natural killer (NK) cell activity, phagocytosis of macrophages and neutrophils are affected by zinc levels. Zinc activates T-cell function and influences TH1 cytokines. The major role of vitamin C is the protection of the immune cells against free radical damage. Vitamin C concentrations in the plasma and leukocytes rapidly decline during acute illness and stress. Ester-C is a unique form of vitamin C that is created through a patented, water-based process that combines vitamin C and calcium ascorbate. Ester-C is non-acidic and should be well-tolerated by those who are sensitive to the acidic nature of ascorbic acid. Andrographis is a shrub found throughout India and other Asian countries that is sometimes called “Indian echinacea.” It is useful for general immune support and has been shown in research to be immune-supporting to individuals during the winter months. Used since ancient times in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Astragalus is an important supplement for both eastern and western herbalists. Often used in combination with other herbs, Astragalus has many uses, but is mostly known for its immune-stimulating properties. Numerous studies have indicated that Astragalus can have beneficial effects on the immune system by binding and activating B-cells and macrophages, stimulating lymphocytes and providing antioxidant activity. Healthy immune function can also be maintained by supporting a well balanced production of cytokines. Studies using black elderberry fruit have indicated that it may have effective immuno-protective abilities, including supporting a balanced production of cytokines. Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) has also been reported for its immuno-protective properties. Honeysuckle promotes the production of natural interferon, which is thought to support the function of natural killer cells (NKs). Study results suggest that Spirulina supports the immune response, particularly the pri